Medicines have an important role in providing health for all people.
National medicines policies can help to achieve this goal. Delegates from the
Asia Pacific region have met to discuss how to actively implement national
medicines policies. Although the countries are diverse, they have common
challenges such as access to medicines, antibiotic resistance and the rational
use of medicines.

Health insurance schemes can improve access to medicines. The pharmaceutical
industry also needs to be involved in achieving universal access and rational
use. Consumer groups have an important role in ensuring policies are
implemented. They can also be involved in promoting health literacy. There is a
need to build the capacity of drug regulatory agencies in the region. Regional
cooperation will be needed to tackle problems of medicines quality, safety and
rational use.